Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
Good morning, Wilmington.
🌲 Environment
Hurricane Erin weakened overnight but remains a category 2 storm that is expected to strengthen as it nears Delaware today, threatening high rip currents, rising tides, and waves up to 11 feet along the coast with risks of minor flooding in coastal areas.
Local officials have closed swimmers from Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany beaches and all Delaware State Parks beaches to protect residents—lifeguards and emergency crews are on alert for worsening conditions later today.
🏛️ Government
Police Athletic League of Delaware faces a financial crisis after its executive director—former House Speaker Valerie Longhurst—resigned this month amid dwindling cash reserves and a freeze on $500,000 in state grants.
The board met on Monday and will appoint an interim leader by the end of the week to help resume youth programs.
Delaware SEPTA riders warn that if state lawmakers do not approve a funding fix soon, cuts will begin within days and the service will end by January—affecting about 1,300 daily commuters at stops in Claymont, Wilmington, Stanton and Newark.
Commuters like Kyle Rice and Cindy Showalter depend on the train for an affordable journey and say that a switch to driving will raise costs and extend travel times.
The Colonial School District Board of Education approved a 7 percent tax rate hike and a split tax rate that shifts more of the tax burden to commercial properties at Tuesday’s meeting.
Chief operating officer Emily Falcon said the new system keeps residential taxes at 52.6 percent and warned that higher commercial appeals could risk revenue—reflecting changes allowed under state law.
Gov. Matt Meyer signed 10 bills that change Delaware’s criminal justice and public safety laws, including an Office of Suicide Prevention that must deliver a state plan by Jan.
1, 2026—updates also adjust non-discrimination rules, youth case appeals, nonprofit gun storage, protective orders and victims’ rights. Lawmakers said the reforms will improve crisis response and strengthen protections as new offices and hiring steps are planned.
The Red Clay School District board unanimously approved new tax rates that lower residents’ school tax bills by 12%—shifting more cost to non-residential properties and raising Amazon’s bill by about $300,000 while keeping it below last year’s amount.
The changes will move $16.4 million in funds from residents to businesses following the property reassessment.
🏥 Health
Delaware lawmakers and health care providers met at the Route 9 Library & Innovation Center near New Castle on Aug.
20 to discuss how federal Medicaid cuts may reduce patient coverage and affect local hospitals; Sen. Marie Pinkney hosted the roundtable, which was opened by U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride and included panelists from major health organizations (ChristianaCare, Beebe Healthcare, Nemours, and Planned Parenthood).
📰 Lifestyle
Although Hurricane Erin has brought rain that may affect beach visits, Delaware beach towns offer indoor attractions—such as shopping centers, theaters and breweries—to keep visitors entertained and safe.
The guide lists these fun options so vacationers can still enjoy their trip even on rainy days.
🎉 Wilmington Events
Submit an event →
Afro Fest Featuring DJ Shinski
10 PM – 4 AM — Pure Flavor Lounge — Admission fee varies — Experience a vibrant night with Afro beats, food, and drinks.
Bully Proof Seminar
9:30-10:30 a.m. — Elevated Studios Martial Arts — Free entry — Equip your child with confidence and self-defense skills in an action-packed seminar.
Kid Davis and the Bullets Live at Gallucio's
8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while grooving to Americana tunes by Kid Davis and the Bullets.
Chaka Fest
9 p.m. — El Maguey — Ticket info available — Experience lively performances at Chaka Fest in the heart of Wilmington.
Wilmington Sports Card & Collectible Show
8 AM – 2 PM — Chambers Memorial Hall — $3 Admission — Experience a vibrant showcase of sports cards and collectibles from top vendors.
Kid Davis and the Bullets Live at Gallucio's
8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while grooving to the Americana sounds of Kid Davis & the Bullets.
George Thorogood & The Destroyers Concert
7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Grand Opera House — Tickets available — Experience rock legends George Thorogood & The Destroyers live in Wilmington.
Kid Davis and the Bullets Live Performance
8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while Kid Davis and the Bullets serenade with Americana tunes.
Ramsey's Farm Pumpkin Run/Walk
8-10 a.m. — Ramsey’s Farm — Free Kids Race included — Enjoy a fun-filled morning of running and walking amidst the fall scenery at Ramsey's Farm.
Hometown Heroes 5K
6-7 p.m. — Rockford Park — Registration fee required — Run or walk in support of local heroes at this community race.
🏠 Wilmington Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Wilmington Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Wilmington Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Wilmington.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.